The Unlikely Romantic Date You Need To Try This Season

The rush of freezing air, the wind on your face, the thrill as you weave around obstacles, and the first cup of cocoa afterwards — skiing is a full day of awesome, fun excitement. But did you know it can make you an overall healthier, happier person?

According to a new South Korean study, a ski trip could help improve your mood in addition to your health. Hyun-Woo Lee, alongside colleagues from Yonsei University, surveyed 279 people visiting major South Korean ski resorts in order to determine the effects of skiing on their moods. By taking a look at how skiers, snowboarders and those who did both felt after their snowy activities, researchers were able to see who benefitted and how.

The research team's results showed that respondents, who spent an average of 4.5 days at the resort, experienced the most positive effects if they became immersed in skiing — and that means shutting themselves off to the rest of the world.

One of the major benefits of taking a ski trip together is being able to try a new adventure together, perhaps even start a tradition. If one of you is a beginner, you can take enjoyment out of teaching the other how to ski. If both of you are new to skiing or old veterans at it, you can bond together in your mutual experience.

Another amazing benefit: being alone in a cabin or lodge together. Shacking up in a nice, warm wooden room with a bottle of wine can help you two get away from the frustrations of work, bills, and more. Taking a break as a team? An excellent solution to stress.

Considering how much work your body does while skiing, it makes sense that your health could benefit from the activity, as well as other snow sports. And how wonderful is it to have a companion on your exercise ventures rather than going at it alone? If you're looking to get fit while raising your spirits with your partner, picking out a ski package could be great for the both of you! Whether you're a beginner or an expert, skiing might just be the perfect way to start 2014 off right.